Minimal

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Minimal is a term that refers to the smallest or least possible amount or degree. In various fields, it may refer to a minimal element, minimal polynomial, minimal surface, or minimal system, among other concepts.

Mathematics[edit | edit source]

In mathematics, the term "minimal" is used in a variety of contexts, each with a different meaning.

Minimal element[edit | edit source]

A minimal element in a set is an element that is not greater than any other element in the set. This concept is used in order theory, a branch of mathematics that studies binary relations.

Minimal polynomial[edit | edit source]

The minimal polynomial of an algebraic element is the monic polynomial of least degree that has the element as a root. This concept is used in field theory and algebraic number theory.

Minimal surface[edit | edit source]

A minimal surface is a surface that locally minimizes its area. This is equivalent to having zero mean curvature. The concept is used in differential geometry.

Minimal system[edit | edit source]

A minimal system in dynamical systems theory is a system that is not a proper extension of any other system. This concept is used in the study of topological dynamics.

Computer Science[edit | edit source]

In computer science, "minimal" can refer to a minimal automaton, which is a deterministic finite automaton such that no proper quotient of it (under the Myhill-Nerode relation) is also a deterministic finite automaton.

Music[edit | edit source]

In music, "minimal" often refers to minimal music, a style of music that employs limited or minimal musical materials.

See also[edit | edit source]

Minimal Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD